In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, BTS leader RM (Kim Namjoon) made a surprising revelation: fellow member Jungkook nearly performed at the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show. According to RM, Usher personally invited Jungkook to join him onstage for the highly anticipated event, but the opportunity fell through due to Jungkook's mandatory military enlistment in South Korea.
The Invitation from Usher
RM explained that Usher reached out to Jungkook before the youngest BTS member began his military service on December 12, 2023. The two artists had previously collaborated on a remix of Jungkook's solo track "Standing Next to You," which appeared on his debut solo album Golden. Usher, who headlined the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show on February 11, 2024, reportedly wanted Jungkook to make a special appearance during the performance.
"Usher invited him before the military, but it didn't work out because of the military," RM stated in the interview. The revelation has sparked excitement among BTS fans, known as ARMY, who have long dreamed of seeing the group perform at the Super Bowl.
Jungkook's Military Service and Solo Career
Jungkook enlisted in the South Korean military alongside fellow member Jimin in December 2023. All seven BTS members have now completed their compulsory military service, which is required for all able-bodied South Korean men between the ages of 18 and 28. Jungkook's enlistment came shortly after the release of Golden, his first solo album, which featured collaborations with artists like Usher, Jack Harlow, and Latto.
The collaboration on "Standing Next to You" remix was well-received by fans and critics alike, showcasing Jungkook's versatility as a performer. The track blended pop and R&B elements, highlighted by smooth vocals and an energetic dance break. Usher's involvement added a layer of prestige, given his status as a legendary R&B artist and former Super Bowl halftime performer.
BTS's Thoughts on the Super Bowl Stage
During the same Rolling Stone interview, the BTS members discussed their views on performing at the Super Bowl. RM described it as "the best event and show stage in the whole world," while Jimin added, "We can't do it unless we're invited." The group acknowledged that such an opportunity depends on cultural openness and timing.
RM elaborated: "Maybe if time goes by, and the thoughts in the people change. All of the people in the world are watching Parasite, all these great things in Korean culture. So if there's a chance, we definitely want to someday." This sentiment reflects BTS's broader impact in bringing Korean culture to a global audience, much like the Oscar-winning film Parasite did.
BTS's Journey Since Military Discharge
BTS reunited in 2025 after all members completed their military service. They immediately announced a new album titled Arirang, which dropped in mid-2025 to massive commercial success. The album features a mix of genres, including hip-hop, pop, and traditional Korean influences, with the title track paying homage to the beloved Korean folk song. Following the album release, BTS embarked on a world tour that has visited major cities across Asia, North America, and Europe, drawing sold-out crowds.
The group's return has been highly anticipated, with fans eager to see them perform together again. Their last full-group tour before enlistment was the "Permission to Dance on Stage" world tour, which concluded in 2022. The new tour, titled "Arirang: World Tour," includes elaborate stage productions, new choreography, and a mix of classic hits and new songs.
Historical Context: K-Pop and the Super Bowl
K-pop has yet to have a direct presence in the Super Bowl halftime show, though its influence on global music continues to grow. Artists like BTS, BLACKPINK, and TWICE have dominated charts worldwide, but the Super Bowl has traditionally featured Western artists. The NFL has occasionally incorporated K-pop into other events, such as the Super Bowl pre-game or other promotional content, but a full K-pop halftime performance remains a milestone yet to be achieved.
Usher's own Super Bowl performance in 2024 featured guest appearances by Alicia Keys, Ludacris, Lil Jon, and others, but no K-pop artists. The revelation that he invited Jungkook suggests that the barriers may be slowly breaking down. Given BTS's massive global fanbase and their proven ability to command large stages, a future invitation seems plausible.
BTS's Cultural Impact and Future Prospects
BTS has become a cultural phenomenon since their debut in 2013. They have broken numerous records, including multiple Billboard Hot 100 number-one hits, sold-out stadium tours, and a historic Grammy nomination. Their influence extends beyond music, with members involved in philanthropy, fashion, and even diplomacy. Jungkook, in particular, has been recognized for his vocal talent, dance skills, and growing solo career.
The possibility of a BTS member performing at the Super Bowl is a testament to the group's global reach. While Jungkook missed the opportunity in 2024, the future remains open. As RM hinted, cultural perceptions are shifting, and the door for Korean artists on such platforms is widening. For now, fans can enjoy BTS's new music and tour, while hoping that one day the Super Bowl halftime show will feature the K-pop kings themselves.
In the meantime, BTS continues to dominate the music scene. Their new album Arirang has received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and emotional depth. The world tour has been praised for its high-energy performances and fan interactions. With their military service behind them, BTS appears poised to reach even greater heights in the coming years.
The story of Jungkook's near Super Bowl performance adds another chapter to BTS's legacy. It highlights the intersection of K-pop and mainstream Western entertainment, and the sacrifices artists make for national duty. As the group moves forward, their fans remain hopeful that the Super Bowl stage will one day feature the seven members of BTS, bringing Korean pop culture to one of the world's biggest platforms.
Source: Yahoo Entertainment News